Which type of mask is best for delivering higher percentages of oxygen?

A partial rebreather mask is specifically designed to deliver higher concentrations of oxygen to patients. This mask features a reservoir bag that collects oxygen, enabling the patient to inhale a mix of oxygen from both the bag and the surrounding air. During exhalation, some of the exhaled air enters the reservoir bag, allowing the patient to re-inhale a portion of this oxygen-rich air during their next breath. This mechanism ensures that patients receive a higher percentage of oxygen compared to other types of masks.

In contrast, a simple face mask provides lower concentrations of oxygen as it does not have a reservoir bag, which limits the amount of oxygen that can be delivered. A nasopharyngeal mask is not used for oxygen delivery but instead serves as an airway device, and an oxygen nasal cannula also delivers oxygen but at lower concentrations compared to a partial rebreather mask and is typically suited for patients needing less than 40% oxygen. Thus, for patients requiring higher percentages of oxygen, the partial rebreather mask is the most effective choice.